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Lawrence J. Busa, Jr.

June 28, 1923 ~ December 22, 2018 (age 95)

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Lawrence J. “Dolly” Busa, Jr., 95, of Torrington, CT, passed away peacefully in his sleep Saturday, December 22, 2018, at Valerie Manor. He was the beloved husband of Marion J.(Byczynski) Busa for 70 years.

He was born June 28, 1923, in Windsor Locks, CT, son of immigrant parents, the late Maria (Luciani) and Lorenzo J. Busa, Sr. He was raised in Meriden, CT, and attended local schools. He enlisted in the U.S. Army to proudly serve his country during World War II, and held the rank of Tank Commander of the 751st Tank Battalion 5th Army. Among his awards and decorations received upon his honorable discharge were the Good Conduct Medal, the European African Middle Eastern Theater Campaign Ribbon with four service stars, and the Purple Heart.

HIs first job was in 1936 at the age of 13, when he worked for this father as a "water boy" bringing cups of water to the workers throughout the day, at various construction sites in Connecticut and New York. He worked for H. Well and Lines Company, and then he was employed by General Motors, New Departure Hyatt until his retirement in 1983 at the age of 60. He was a member of the Order of the Purple Heart and of the V.F.W. and the American Legion.

Lawrence was an avid deer hunter, and enjoyed his time spent at his sister Albina's home in Wingdale, NY during every hunting season for many years. He also enjoyed the beach, swimming, crabbing, flea markets, antique shows, bowling, vacationing in Florida, and his daughter Shirley's cooking.

In addition to his wife Marion, he is survived by two daughters, Shirley M. Papallo and her husband Mark of Torrington who he made his home with for 19 years, prior to becoming a resident of Valerie Manor, Susan Samela of Bristol; one sister, Albina Masiero of Dover Plains, NY; three grandsons, Justin L. Poulin, Jeremiah S. Samela, Robert M. Papallo; five great grandchildren, as well as many nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brothers, Dante and Antonio, his sisters, Annie Talamona, Jennie Cerrone, and Esther Piretti and his best friend and war buddy, Walter Karpinski.

Funeral services will be held on Friday, December 28, 2018, at 10:00 a.m. at Cook Funeral Home, 82 Litchfield St., Torrington, CT, with final military honors accorded. Burial will follow at the Connecticut State Veterans Cemetery, 317 Bow Lane, Middletown, CT 06457. Calling hours will be held on Thursday, December 27, 2018, from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Cook Funeral Home.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Alzheimer's Association (www.alz.org)

Condolences may be sent to the Busa family by visiting www.cookfuneralhomect.com